Doctor Who: The Name Of The Doctor Review – 8 Ways Steven Moffat Defined The Heroine’s Journey
7. Engage A Guide
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In the epic poem Inferno, by Dante, the protagonist is guided through the nine circles of hell by Virgil, an ancient Roman poet. Inferno is part of Dantes Comedia a journey through the three realms of the dead: hades, purgatory and heaven. The story is an allegory for the ascent of the soul into heaven and echoes River Songs first episode, Time of Angels with the eleventh Doctor as they make their way through the temple of the Aplans (as River states each level represents the ascent of the soul), into the damaged ship and out into the open air. In The Name of the Doctor River has become the guide directing the apprentice, Clara, through the trials that lead to knowledge and salvation. River is the transition point the connection between life and death, individual and universal. She is aware of each perspective, Claras human one and the Doctors Time Lord; and she works to bring them together.